Ultimate HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Year-Round Comfort

When your home or business feels stuffy, too cold, or just off, it’s rarely just the weather. It’s your HVAC system quietly telling you it needs attention. As the seasons flip, so do the demands on your heating and cooling—sometimes overnight.

At Briggs Heating, we know that comfort is more than a temperature. It’s the peace of mind that comes from knowing your system won’t fail in the middle of a heatwave or on the coldest night of the year. Our emergency hvac teams have seen it all, fixed it all, and helped thousands stay ahead of surprise breakdowns.

Spring & Summer AC Care ☀️

When the days get warmer, your air conditioner becomes the heartbeat of your comfort. But a neglected system works harder, costs more, and can break down when you least expect it.

Homeowner’s Checklist

• Swap out air filters: Every 30–60 days. Think of filters as your lungs—clogged ones make everything harder.
• Clear outdoor units: Trim back bushes, leaves, or debris at least 2 feet away for airflow.
• Inspect visible wiring: Look for cracks or chew marks—rodents love hidden snacks.
• Check thermostat batteries: Dead batteries = no cool air. Test settings for accuracy.
• Ensure all vents are open: Blocked vents are like closed doors in a hallway—air can’t go where you need it.
• Listen for odd noises: Squeaks, rattles, or hums? Don’t ignore them.

Facility Manager’s Checklist

• Schedule professional AC tune-ups: Once before peak season. Document all maintenance.
• Test emergency shutoffs: Confirm compliance with OSHA and local code.
• Inspect insulation: Especially in attics and mechanical rooms.
• Clean or replace commercial-grade filters: Check manufacturer’s specs for frequency.
• Monitor building automation systems: Calibrate sensors for accuracy.

Pro Tip

Storms can knock out power or flood outdoor AC units. Secure your unit and have a backup plan—a portable fan or a generator you know works.

Fall & Winter Heating Prep ❄️

Don’t wait for the first cold snap to remember your furnace. A little prep in the fall means no chilly surprises.

Homeowner’s Checklist

• Change or clean furnace filters: At the start of the season, then monthly.
• Test the thermostat: Switch to heat mode; check for rapid cycling.
• Clear area around heaters: Nothing flammable within 3 feet.
• Bleed radiators (if applicable): Release trapped air for best heat.
• Check carbon monoxide detectors: Fresh batteries every fall.

Facility Manager’s Checklist

• Schedule boiler/furnace inspections: Ensure compliance with NFPA and local fire code.
• Inspect exhaust vents and hoods: Blockages can lead to dangerous fumes.
• Check all safety controls: Pressure relief valves, limit switches, and alarms.
• Review generator readiness: Test under load before storm season.
• Calibrate thermostats and building controls: Avoid hot/cold spots in large spaces.

Pro Tip

Holiday gatherings and storms put extra stress on your system. Don’t overload outlets with holiday lights or space heaters—spread the load to avoid tripping breakers.

Air Quality Upgrades for Every Season 🌱

The air you breathe matters every day—not just when pollen counts soar or a cold is going around.

What to Check

• Upgrade to HEPA or electrostatic filters: These catch smaller particles and allergens.
• Install air scrubbers or UV purifiers: Especially important for families with allergies or businesses with high traffic.
• Schedule duct cleaning: Dust, pet hair, and mold love hiding in neglected ductwork.
• Test humidity: Use a hygrometer; ideal indoor humidity is 30–50%.
• Add or service humidifiers/dehumidifiers: Comfort isn’t just temperature—it’s how the air feels.

Pro Tip

If you notice more dust than usual or odors that linger, your air quality may need a boost. The CDC recommends regular filter changes and proper ventilation.

DIY vs. Call a Pro 🛠️

Some HVAC tasks are as easy as changing a light bulb. Others? Not so much. Know when to roll up your sleeves—and when to pick up the phone.

Safe to DIY

• Changing filters
• Checking thermostat settings
• Cleaning visible vents and returns
• Clearing leaves from outdoor units

Call Briggs Heating For

• Electrical repairs (wiring, breakers)
• Refrigerant or coolant issues (EPA regulations apply)
• Annual tune-ups and safety checks
• Duct cleaning and sealing
• Emergency hvac repairs—any time, any day

Trying to fix complex problems without the right tools or knowledge can void warranties and lead to bigger headaches. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends licensed professionals for anything involving gas, electricity, or refrigerant.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When you schedule AC Repair near you or an emergency hvac call, here’s what a Briggs Heating technician brings:

• Diagnostic tools for precise troubleshooting
• System pressure and refrigerant checks
• Electrical safety tests
• Full inspection of ductwork, filters, and moving parts
• Performance tune-ups: tightening, lubricating, calibrating
• Honest recommendations—no upsell, just facts

We follow industry standards from ASHRAE and EPA guidelines for every service.

Prevention & Maintenance: Extend System Life

Routine care is like regular oil changes for your car—skip them and you’ll pay more later.

Homeowner Habits

• Monthly: Check filters, clear vents, and listen for noise.
• Seasonally: Test your thermostat, check batteries, and inspect outdoor equipment.
• Yearly: Schedule a professional maintenance visit—catch small issues before they grow.

Facility Manager Habits

• Log all maintenance: Track dates, repairs, and parts replaced.
• Set reminders for inspections: Compliance isn’t just paperwork—it’s safety.
• Train staff: Know how to spot common warning signs.

Costs & Time Factors

HVAC maintenance doesn’t need to break the bank, but emergencies can hit hard at the worst times.

• Basic filter changes: 5–10 minutes, low cost
• DIY cleaning: 30–60 minutes
• Professional tune-up: 1–2 hours
• Major repairs or replacements: Several hours to a full day

Neglecting routine care? That’s like letting a leaky faucet drip for years. Small leaks lead to big bills.

When It’s an Emergency

Sometimes, you can’t wait. If you have:

• No heat or AC during extreme weather
• Strange burning smells
• Carbon monoxide alarms going off
• Loud bangs or grinding noises

Shut down the system and call an emergency hvac tech. Safety comes first—always.

FAQ

How often should I replace my air filter?

Every 30–60 days for most homes; more often if you have pets, allergies, or high usage.

Does HVAC maintenance really save money?

Absolutely. Well-maintained systems use less energy, last longer, and break down less often. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates you can save up to 15% on energy bills with regular upkeep.

What’s the best temperature to set my thermostat?

In summer: 78°F when home, 85°F away. In winter: 68°F when home, 60°F away. Adjust for comfort, but small changes save big.

How do I know if it’s time for a new system?

If your HVAC is over 15 years old, needs constant repairs, or energy bills skyrocket, it may be time to talk options.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Every region throws its own curveballs—from summer storms to winter freezes. Before the first big weather shift, check local code requirements for generator use, carbon monoxide detectors, and ventilation. For businesses, OSHA and NFPA codes are your best guides.

Download Your HVAC Checklist PDF

Want a printable version of these tips? Download our year-round checklist and keep it handy for storm season, holiday prep, or your next home project.

Ready for year-round comfort? Call Briggs Heating now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7966 .